PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT
engineering team can review customers’ lift plans, assess the a proposed arrangement and recommend alternative rigging configurations. “Where a standard modular system cannot meet the operational or geometric requirements, we can design and manufacture a custom solution supported by finite element analysis, proof- load testing and, where required, third-party witnessing or DNV design approval,” he adds. “This more considered approach gives ports, contractors and cargo owners greater confidence that the entire lifting system has been engineered for the specific load and operating environment.” Modulift products can be designed in
accordance with recognised standards including BS EN 13155, ASME B30.20, ASME BTH-1, AS 4991 and ISO 17096, depending on the market and application.
The variable internal weight distribution of a load may impact load management.
they are tailored to solve specific operational challenges,” says Calomino. “Whether the objective is improving productivity, reducing handling steps, increasing lifting safety, or enabling a crane to manage a wider variety of cargo, the project begins with understanding the customer’s workflow and operational environment, then designing equipment.” Greenfield Products specialises in custom designed and engineered solutions – essentially, solving problems that are beyond the scope of standard equipment. Calomino believes growing demand is down to increased awareness of lifting safety, a trend he only sees going one way. “Ports today are operating under increasing
pressure to improve safety performance while simultaneously increasing productivity,” he says. “Many customers approach us after identifying risks associated with legacy lifting methods or finding that standard catalogue products cannot adequately address a unique lifting challenge.” Custom-engineered lifting equipment enables
Greenfield Products to design around specific loads, environmental conditions, and operational requirements. This ensures that proper load control, improved visibility, reduced rigging complexity and enhanced operator confidence all contribute to safer lifting operations. “We are seeing a growing willingness among ports to invest upfront in engineered solutions that reduce risk and create a safer work environment over the long term,” he adds. “Our goal is not just to sell a lifting beam or spreader, but to help customers lift more safely and efficiently.” In a similar vein, Modulift believes this trend
reflects both a growing awareness of lifting safety – and a broader move towards engineering the complete lifting arrangement, rather than
x | October 2026 |
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CP&A performs detailed fatigue analysis to balance safety and operating costs.
treating below-the-hook equipment as a standard accessory selected solely by capacity. It understands that loads handled in ports can be particularly challenging. They may offset centres of gravity, restricted lifting points, unusual geometry, limited structural strength or specific requirements concerning sling angles and load distribution. There may be operational constraints such as limited headroom, vessel movement, restricted crane outreach or the need to transfer cargo between the quayside and a vessel. “These variables mean that choosing a beam based only on its headline working load limit is not sufficient,” says Charlesworth. “The full lift geometry must be considered, including the beam span, sling angles, individual lifting-point loads, headroom, centre of gravity and the forces introduced into the cargo.” Modulift’s
Smarter equipment Alongside the trend for customisation, below- the-hook attachments are becoming ‘smart’. “Spreaders have become smart in several aspects,” says Elme Spreaders. Its customers use data to monitor health status of equipment and schedule preventive maintenance more accurately to reduce the risk of unexpected downtime. “Also, key features like remote access for troubleshooting and diagnostics are a very helpful tool to contribute to lower TCO,” it adds. Modern spreaders are becoming more
modular and adaptable, with improved sensors and digital monitoring that enhance not only operational efficiency but also precision and safety. “In the future, we think that we can expect further automation and data-driven optimisation, helping operators to reduce downtime and improve productivity,” it adds. The biggest trend Greenfield Products has seen is the integration of technology that provides greater visibility into lifting operations. Its customers want real-time information about load weight, load distribution, equipment condition and maintenance requirements. “We’re also seeing improved mechanical designs that allow operators to adjust spreader dimensions more quickly and safely, reducing downtime during cargo changeovers,” says Calomino. At the same time, engineering tools and finite element analysis (FEA) allow manufacturers to optimise designs that were not practical a decade ago, resulting in stronger, lighter and more efficient lifting equipment. “While lifting equipment may not receive the same attention as automation systems or cranes, innovation within the attachment itself continues to move the industry forward.” Modulift has a slightly different perspective.
“The fundamental mechanical principles of spreader beams remain well established, but the
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